July 18
Posted by Pastor Toledo

In 1 Samuel 17, we find the famous story of David and Goliath. Because of the fame of this story, we have mistakenly labeled it as a kids story and overlooked the powerful truth that lies inside. 

The theme we’ve seen throughout David’s life thus far is that our pursuits determine our perceptions, and there is no clearer example of that then in this story. In this battle between the Israel and Philistine armies, Goliath taunts, mocks, and intimidates the Israelites, and Israel avoids fighting for forty days. Yet, 40 days into this war, it takes David to come to the scene for there to be any mention of God. 

In verse 26, he says, “Who is this uncircumcised Philistine that he should defy the armies of the living God?” The Israelites weren’t seeking God, thus the Lord became small to them and the giant became to big for them. As a result, they “lost their courage” and were unable to fight. 

Questions for Meditation

  1. Read verses 26-32. What was the perception of the giant that David had, and what was the perception of the Israelites? How did these perceptions influence the way they handled this giant?
  2. At times, we can fall into the trap of Satan, similar to the Philistines; we begin to think that just because we’re under attack, that means God isn’t with us. But David showed that part of following God is discerning the attacks. In what ways has the enemy attacked you recently? 
  3. Why is it so important to discern whether certain obstacles in our lives are attacks?
  4. In verses 36-37, David alluded to the fact that protecting his sheep from lions and bears had prepared him to face Goliath. In what ways do you feel like God might be using your current circumstances to prepare you for the future?
  5. God often uses difficult situations in our lives to prepare us to serve or fight for others in the future. How have you seen God use your difficult situations to help others?
  6. What giants are you facing in your life today? Are there smaller giants that God wants you to deal with so that they don’t continue to get larger?


Category: Pursue